GardenAfrica has trained 591 Zimbabwean smallholders in organic standards & compliance, so they can sell their produce at an increased price. The farmers have grouped together into associations and their commitment is astounding.

Having spent 2 days training, all members of an association swear a pledge to meet the organic standards. Without this pledge they cannot become certified organic producers. This is taken so seriously that one man felt unable to take the pledge, in case he inadvertently failed to comply. If someone misses the pledge at their own association, they must travel to the next association, where the same training takes place the following week. Due to family commitments or long-awaited medical appointments, many members have had to undertake what can be a long journey.

Shortly after the final pledges had been taken in this particular community, an elderly man, accompanied by his son, appeared on bicycles hoping to take their pledge. Catching his breath, this gentleman disappeared to the drop toilet to change, emerged immaculately presented in a shirt & tie, and proudly raised his hand to make his pledge. It was incredibly humbling.

When giving them a lift home after the ceremony, GardenAfrica’s founder George calculated that they had cycled 72 kms (nearly 45 miles!) on tar and dirt roads on bald, ripped and deflated tyres. It took them 9 hours. When George parted ways with them, the farmer said that he believed that organic farming “held the answers for a better life”.